Isle of Wight Guide

There are lots of animals to see at the Isle of Wight Zoo from monkeys and lions to rabbits and goats. However, there is also a range of activities you can get involved with, giving you the chance to find out about the animals too. The Isle of Wight Zoo specialises in the care of tigers and lemurs.

The zoo put on presentations everyday about the different animals they look after, educating visitors about their welfare - you may even be lucky enough to see some of the animals being fed.

Visit the Zoolitte Farm, which is home to rabbits and goats and other farm animals or take a trip to the Handling Zone to learn how to care for your pets at home.

If you get hungry during your visit, dine at the Zootique café or one of the outlets, which are situated throughout the zoo so wherever you are, you're catered for at the zoo.

Plus make sure you pick up a free stamp passport from the entrance and collect animal stamps around the zoo on the Stamp Trail. The animal stampers are hidden so make sure you keep your eyes pealed.

From Sandown station on the Island Line, there is a walk of 20-30 minutes to the zoo.

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Isle of Wight Steam Railway operates on part of what was once 54 miles of railway on the Isle of Wight, most of which was closed between 1952 and 1966. However, its unique atmosphere has been perfectly preserved by this largely volunteer-run railway, which began operating trains in 1971. Take the Island Line train to Smallbrook Junction and enjoy five and a half miles of unspoilt countryside to Wootton station, passing through the small village of Haven Street where the line has a station, headquarters and depot. 

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Sandown Bay is situated at the south east corner of the Island where families can enjoy sandy beaches and stunning views from the cliff tops.

Shanklin beach forms part of the beautiful Sandown bay. It is a popular spot for locals and tourists, due to its swimming and sunbathing opportunities.

The beach is well served by long-shoremen providing traditional and modern leisure pursuits including sailing, motorboat and canoe hire.

Shanklin beach has not only won awards for its water quality but is also a Blue Flag winner. Blue Flag is a prestigious, international award scheme; only coastal destinations which have achieved the highest quality in water, facilities, safety, environmental education and management are rewarded with a Blue Flag. 

Travel by Island Line Trains to Shanklin Beach - a 15 minute walk from Shanklin station. The town centre is only a short walk away from the seafront via the lift.

The image of Shanklin Beach was supplied by isleofwight.com.

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The purpose of this museum is to pay homage to Donald McGill, who spent his life creating original artworks for the then thriving postcard industry.
Donald created over 12,000 postcards from 1904 till his death in 1962. You will find that Donald's Cards will depict anything and everyone, his watchful eye never missed a humorous situation as he witnessed the years as they rolled through the 20th century.The museum has 1000's of cards on display and also interactive displays are in evidence. A large collection of original artwork will also be on display including very early work from 1907-1914. Donald McGill Postcard museum is 5 minutes walk from Ryde Esplanade Station. 

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Carisbrooke Castle has enjoyed over 800 years of history and is best known for its most famous prisoner, Charles I, who lived here before his execution. Climb the battlements and see the famous donkeys at work in the 16th century well house. There is also a museum to explore and discover the new Edwardian inspired Princess Beatrice Garden. From Yarmouth, take the Southern Vectis 7 bus, which runs hourly to this National Trust icon. 

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The Dinosaur Isle Museum displays many fossils and life-size reconstructions of the Islands’ dinosaurs in Britain’s first purpose built dinosaur museum and visitor attraction. The Island is also the most important site for dinosaur remains in Europe: open seven days a week, it makes for a fascinating day out. The Sandown seafront also offers a fossil walk – just a 20 minute walk from Sandown train station.  

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Osborne House was Queen Victoria’s much-loved summer home, and the place where she died in 1901. It was conceived by Prince Albert in grand Italian Renaissance style as a bolt-hole fit for a queen. This is. Visitors peeking at the personal memorabilia are offered a fascinating insight into the domestic arrangements of a royal family. Take the No 4 bus from Portsmouth Harbour to Ryde or Southampton to East Cowes to Osborne House.  

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Shanklin Chine is a nature lover’s haven but also a popular attraction for all. It is home to rare plants, woodland, wildlife and breathtaking waterfalls. There are a number of chines in the Isle of Wight but Shanklin covers an area of around 3 acres, making it one of the largest on the Island. The chine is an enchanting place, with its unique views and tranquil environment, it’s a must see place to visit.

The chine is only a 20 minute walk from Shanklin station so hop on board an Island Line train today for a fun day out! Plus, rail ticket holders will receive 10% discount off their admission upon production of a valid rail ticket.

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